Duo in Concert
Derek Bailey & Paul Motian (Frozen Reeds)
“Duo in Concert” is a remarkable record, a rare and precious document of two masters of free improvisation, guitarist Derek Bailey and drummer Paul Motian. They only crossed paths twice in their careers, and this album preserves both occasions: one in Groningen, Holland, in 1990, and one in New York City, in 1991. The first one is also available on vinyl, while the latter is a digital-only bonus.
This music is not for the faint of heart. It is adventurous, unpredictable, and uncompromising. Bailey and Motian venture into the unknown, creating new sounds, new forms, new meanings. They don't follow any rules, except their own. They don't rely on any conventions, except their own. They communicate with each other through their instruments, like two explorers who have found a common language. They listen to each other, they react to each other, they challenge each other. They are fearless, inventive, and expressive.
What we hear is a fascinating conversation between two original voices, who share a spirit of curiosity and discovery. They invite us to join them on their journey, to witness their findings and their surprises, and to appreciate their individual and collective artistry. The album also includes a PDF with a chat between two guitarists, Bill Frisell and Henry Kaiser, who admire Bailey and Motian's music and tell us why.
“This is one of those moments that we’re always hoping for, and it's so rare. And it's so hard to talk about, because it's so beautiful. It's like you're seeing some new species of plant that you never knew existed or something.” – Bill Frisell
“Duo in Concert” is a tribute to the power and beauty of improvisation, and to the legacy of two influential and innovative musicians. It is a chance to hear them play together, and to experience their musical chemistry and creativity. It is an album that deserves to be heard by anyone who cares about the history and the future of music.
Check out this bad-ass stuff by Bailey and Motian, and hear them do their thing like nobody else!